Eternal Food

In 1985, Madonna released the hit song “Material Girl.” I thought recently, after rereading the feeding of the 5,000 in John’s Gospel, that the lyric “we are living in a material world and I am a material girl” summed up not only 1980’s excess but also materialism’s ageless allure. After the feeding, when the crowd pursues Jesus, he says, “Very truly, I tell you, you are looking for me … because you ate your fill of the loaves. Do not work for the food that perishes, but for the food that endures for eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you” (6:26-27).

The material without question is important. Everyone needs food. We followers of Jesus must feed the hungry today like Jesus in the wilderness, but we also must feed those who hunger for “the food that endures for eternal life.”

This past Sunday, Bishop Anne received Betty and Nancy into the Episcopal Church. Both beamed with joy, having found a spiritual home after searching for years. Nancy and Betty reveal the difference spiritual food makes in a person’s life.

The Clayton Farmers Market recently approved our application for a booth. Once a month we can set up a table under a pop up tent from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We’ll have some giveaways, but mostly we’ll just talk to folks. If they’re not active in a faith community, we’ll invite them to GEC.

Email me with questions or to volunteer for all or part of the time tomorrow Saturday June 24. If you’re hesitant, it’s okay. I was, too. I’ve found, though, this type of outreach is fun and rewarding. People appreciate the conversation and invitation, because almost everyone realizes you’re offering nothing less than “food that endures for eternal life.”